Plans for 600 capacity weddings and function venue in Nelson

H S Developments (NW) Ltd based in Nelson want to erect a wedding and banqueting function venue and create car parking and landscaping at a former mill premises at Alder Bank on Manchester Road.

The proposals, for the former Springbank Works, include space for around 200 cars, and will operate from 9am until 11pm Monday through to Saturday and 9am until 6pm on Sundays.

The land behind the service station could be turned into a wedding venue (Image: Council)

A design and access statement reads: “The single storey structure would feature generous amounts of glazing externally.

“The proposed internal layout details the reception area, toilets and main hall.

“There is also sufficient space on site for bin storage and for service vehicles to attend the premises.

“Externally, there is a vast tarmac surfaced area where guest vehicles will be parked.

“It is envisaged that around seven jobs would be created as part of the proposals but with further employment created with the deployment of external caterers who would provide the food and drink at events.”

It goes on: “The applicant seeks to put to effective use a site that has been vacant for a considerable period of time. The proposed use of the site is one which would result in job creation for local people and represents sustainable economic development.

“The use of the site as a wedding and banqueting facility would have a negligible impact on residential amenity as the nearest residential properties are sited a considerable distance away.

“Moreover, any comings and goings to and from the site would be indistinguishable from the already high levels of activity seen along Manchester Road, given its proximity to the motorway exit.”

One letter of objection has already been received by the council citing issues and concerns over traffic and additional cars.

A transport statement lodged alongside the plans reads: “The number of guests at events would vary, but the facility could accommodate up to 600 people.

“Many events would attract fewer guests. Guests attending the facility would mainly arrive by car, but car-occupancy rates would be high; generally, three people or more.

“Therefore, the proposed 200 on-site car parking spaces would be adequate.

“The applicant would employ only a small team of staff on site. There would be a manager, up to three car parking marshals, two shuttle-wagon operators, and an in-building staff member.

“Staff would be encouraged to travel to and from site by sustainable mode; either car-sharing or public transport. Some might live nearby and walk or cycle to work. For those choosing to use public transport, a late-night get-you-home policy would exist.

“The new facility would be hired out for wedding receptions, and those people renting the facility would have to arrange their own catering. The applicant would not provide the catering.”